Traum Diggs: A Golden Era Baby with a Story to Tell
Published on TRK TLNT
In the vibrant hip-hop landscape of the early 90s, Brooklyn native Traum Diggs found his calling. Growing up in the cultural epicenter during what many consider the "golden era" of hip-hop, his immersion in the music was inevitable. Traum started writing rhymes at just 10 years old and recorded his first studio session by the age of 14. From those early beginnings, his passion for the craft has never wavered.
A Sound That’s Unmistakably Traum Diggs
Traum Diggs describes his style as "audiobiographic," a raw and authentic reflection of his life experiences and perspectives. His raspy, distinct voice complements his introspective and thought-provoking lyrics, which strike a balance between chill, jazzy lo-fi beats and conscious reflection. While he doesn’t label himself as a “conscious rapper,” Traum brings an undeniable depth to his music, earning him a reputation as a storyteller with a conscience.
Milestones That Matter
For Traum Diggs, success isn’t just about the numbers, but certain milestones stand out. His video for “Sax Fifth Avenue Flow” has surpassed 500,000 views on YouTube, a viral moment that he describes as a career highlight. Sharing the stage with DJ Premier in Brooklyn was another significant moment, a full-circle experience for someone raised on the beats and rhymes of hip-hop's legends. Beyond numbers and accolades, what keeps him grounded is the support he’s received from listeners and fellow artists, including some he once admired as a fan.
Looking Ahead: Rekindling the Creative Spark
After a period of relative quiet, Traum Diggs is feeling the itch to create again. Inspired by veteran artists who continue to push boundaries, he’s focusing on building a solid infrastructure to sustain his next creative run. One of his goals is to complete another Jazz Hop album with his longtime collaborator Gas-Lab, while also exploring more traditional and literary writing endeavors.
Stay tuned for more from this Brooklyn storyteller as he continues to write his legacy in both music and beyond.
Reflections on an Evolving Industry
Having started his career in the mid-90s, Traum Diggs has witnessed—and adapted to—monumental shifts in the music industry. From cassette tapes to CDs, MP3s, and now streaming, he’s navigated a rapidly changing landscape. The rise of social media and digital platforms has been both a blessing and a challenge. While big tech and the music industry's evolving priorities have sometimes left him frustrated, the internet's democratizing power has allowed Traum to find a global audience as an independent artist.
“Figuring out how to stay in the loop has kept me young,” he says. “I’ve even seen my own music sold on vinyl, which brings everything full circle.” Despite the challenges, including modest payouts from streaming platforms, Traum remains grateful for the journey. His music resonates with lovers of authentic hip-hop worldwide, proof that his artistry transcends trends.
As Traum Diggs prepares for his next chapter, his story serves as a testament to perseverance, evolution, and the enduring power of genuine creativity.